SPECIAL SECTION REAL ESTATE
2. Mortgage rates and tax limits.
Unfortunately, not all news is good news for first-time buyers.
Mortgage rates are predicted to continue to rise in 2018, expected
to reach 5 percent toward the latter half of the year. In addition,
new tax laws that went into effect at the beginning of the year have
new limitations. Be sure to look into mortgage interest deduction
and other tax deduction limits that may affect your taxes for 2018.
3. Agent.
Having a real estate agent in your corner for a first-time purchase
is key. Agents will not only help you navigate the home-buying
process, but can also be a valuable resource for an inside look
at new homes that go on the market. This gives buyers the
opportunity to view homes that may not have made it onto real
estate websites for public viewing.
4. Location.
Your dream house may not be in your dream location, and your
dream location may not have your dream house. Don’t get stuck
in a rut if you’re not seeing everything you want in your price
range. Typically, you’ll need to make some compromises with
your first ho me. Keep a few non-negotiables in your back pocket,
but otherwise be open to the idea of putting some of your own
upgrades and changes into a home that may not have everything
on your wish list.
5. Home.
Don’t get stuck in the mindset that you should spend every dollar
that you qualify for in your mortgage. This could lead to bigger
problems down the road. Look in the market under your max
budget and be creative when looking at homes for ways to make
improvements or changes that better fit your needs. A little bit of
sweat equity can go a long way and will give the home your own
personal touch.
6. Offer.
Once you’ve found a house you want to call “home,” work with
your real estate agent to come up with an offer the seller can’t
refuse. Whether the house needs some improvements or it’s a hot
buy on the market, your agent can guide you into making a serious
offer to the seller. If you’re feeling passionate about the home,
write the seller a letter explaining why you’re the best buyer for the
home. These touches can sometimes be the difference between
getting the house of your dreams, or losing it to another buyer.
7. Moving.
You’ve done it! You’ve purchased your first home. Now that you
have a mortgage to pay, keep in mind some money-saving tips, like
asking your closest family and friends to help you move! A little
pizza can go a long way when looking for some extra help. Make
a plan for those personal touches to add to your home. Test out
paint colors in each room to make sure you like the color in the
daylight. Purchase furniture after making detailed measurements
(you don’t want to come home with something that doesn’t fit!).
Add some curb appeal as a finishing touch and as a way to meet
your new neighbors!
Ways to Prepare Your
House for Sale
In the market to sell your home? Follow these tips on how
to optimize the home-selling process.
• Make sure your landscaping is appealing to the eye and
aligns with the season.
• Add shrubs, plants or flowers to line the front of your
home to add curb appeal.
• Use a power washer or a hose attachment sprayer to clean
the exterior of your home.
• Clean out gutters and wash windows.
• Make repairs to screens, leaks, and broken windows
where possible.
• A fresh coat of paint on the front door, a new welcome
mat and an inviting entrance can give a great first
impression.
• Add or refresh house numbers to make them visible from
the curb.
• Make the entryway valuable by adding a simple coat rack
if there isn’t a closet.
• Remove shoes, bags, coats and excess furniture from the
entryway.
• Make sure the view from the entryway is clear into all
visible rooms.
• Remove oversized furniture and organize remaining
furniture to make the room look as large as possible.
• Leave just enough furniture in each room to show the
purpose of the room.
• Depersonalize rooms by removing photographs of family,
personal sayings and artwork.
• Open curtains and blinds to allow as much natural light in
as possible.
• Leave countertops clear of small appliances and wipe
them down.
• Clean out cabinets, refrigerator and pantry to allow for a
roomy look.
• Clean carpets and flooring before showing your home.
• Clean mirrors, countertops and sink bowls.
• Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks.
• Close your toilet lid.
• Hang fresh towels in the bathrooms in neutral colors.
• Eliminate harsh odors with natural scents or by adding
fresh flowers or baking a batch of cookies (Yum!).
• Paint rooms with neutral colors to appeal to more buyers.
• Declutter closets by removing half of your clothes, giving
the illusion of more space.
• Clear out the garage as much as possible to leave extra
room for cars.
• Sit back and get ready for some offers! n
NORTH ALLEGHENY
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SUMMER 2018
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